As of February 2025, there is no explicit statewide law in Pennsylvania that prohibits vaping while driving. However, recent and upcoming changes to distracted driving legislation may impact the legality of using vaping devices behind the wheel. Notably, Pennsylvania’s new distracted driving law, known as Paul Miller’s Law, will take effect on June 5, 2025. This law bans the use of hand-held interactive mobile devices (IMDs) while driving as a primary offense—meaning drivers can be stopped and cited just for using such a device in their hand.
While the law does not specifically mention vaping devices, it defines IMDs broadly. Some advanced vaping devices with interactive features—such as those with touchscreens, Bluetooth connectivity, or other functions requiring manipulation—could potentially fall under this definition. If a vaping device is interpreted as an IMD, using it while driving could result in a violation. However, most standard vape pens and mods do not feature these interactive capabilities and would not be covered by the law.
Additionally, the state’s Clean Indoor Air Act does not prohibit vaping in vehicles, and there are no statewide restrictions on vaping while driving based on this law. However, some local municipalities, like Philadelphia, have their own ordinances that restrict vaping in certain public spaces, but these generally do not apply to private vehicles.
Vaping while driving is not explicitly illegal in Pennsylvania under current state law. However, the upcoming distracted driving law could potentially affect the use of some advanced vaping devices if they are considered interactive mobile devices. Drivers should always prioritize safe driving practices and minimize distractions, including those from vaping devices. Always check for local ordinances that may be stricter than state law.
Sources
[1] https://ecigator.com/guide/vaping-while-driving-in-pennsylvania/
[2] https://tobaccowatcher.globaltobaccocontrol.org/articles/c6abe383-00d9-3550-99f9-2e6fad1be3b3/
[3] https://gambonelaw.com/what-parents-and-students-need-to-know-about-vaping-in-and-around-school-in-pennsylvania-new-jersey/
[4] https://gambonelaw.com/supreme-court-hears-on-manufacturers-denied-fda-application-for-flavored-vapes-what-parents-need-to-know-about-vaping-in-new-jersey-and-pennsylvania/
[5] https://www.reddit.com/r/electronic_cigarette/comments/9w9xjw/no_problem_for_vaping_while_driving_in_the_us/
